Strategic Finance Director - Higher Education (Remote)

VIVA USA Inc; Carbondale (IL); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

VIVA USA Inc. in Illinois invites applications for Executive Director of Finance/Controller.

The role provides strategic direction, oversight, and operational leadership across financial management for the client Campus, reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, CFO. The position leads a finance team of 11, drives internal controls, and ensures GAAP/GASB compliance, while coordinating with multiple campuses and external auditors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting; CPA or equivalent preferred.
• 7–10 years of financial management experience with leadership in higher education or nonprofit.
• Deep knowledge of fund accounting, GAAP, GASB, and federal compliance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present complex financials.

Responsibilities

• Draft MD&A and financial statements content; ensure integrity of statements.
• Coordinate across campuses to maintain financial statement integrity.
• Lead annual external audits and respond to audit findings.
• Oversee general accounting, fixed assets, and accounts payable (staff of 11).
• Design and monitor internal controls; assess financial risk.
• Oversee Grants & Sponsored Programs data for SEFA and federal single audit.
• Manage federal financial aid drawdown via G5 portal.
• Develop finance policy updates and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Governance & compliance

Communication skills

Team leadership

Analytical thinking

Ethical standards

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

CPA or equivalent preferred

Tools

Oracle EBS

Banner

Workday

PeopleSoft

Job description

VIVA USA Inc. in Illinois invites applications for Executive Director of Finance/Controller.

The role provides strategic direction, oversight, and operational leadership across financial management for the client Campus, reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, CFO. The position leads a finance team of 11, drives internal controls, and ensures GAAP/GASB compliance, while coordinating with multiple campuses and external auditors.